The focal point of Garvies Point is the Museum, offering exhibits that emphasize prehistoric Native American culture, the science of archaeology, and the geology of Long Island and New York State. Geology exhibits illustrate Long Island's glacial history and explain the formation of today's land features. Detailed dioramas tell the story of changes in climate and sea level over the past 20,000 years.

The archaeological exhibits cover the migration of man from Asia to the New World. Exquisite dioramas illustrate scenes of Indian life on Long Island. Numerous Indian artifacts are on display.

The preserve consists of 62 acres of glacial moraine covered by forests, thickets, and meadows. Showing various stages of succession, wooded areas contain 48 species of trees, as well as numerous shrubs, vines, and wildflowers. High cliffs along the shoreline exhibit erosional features such as alluvial fans, talus slopes, and slumping caused by ancient multicolored clays oozing from the beach.

A wide variety of wildlife, including more than 140 species of birds, is attracted to this beautiful site, making it ideal for photographers and bird watchers, as well as people who simply love being with nature. The geological features found here are typical of Long Island, but nowhere else are they found together in such a limited area.

Garvies Point offers a number of opportunities for individuals and families to connect up with our natural world and the human history of the Long Island area, through casual visits and hikes, special events and family programs. Call for a schedule. The School Programs below can also be adapted as Birthday Parties.

School Groups can participate in a number of educational programs relating to Native Americans and archaeology. A few examples are Our Indian Friends (Pre-K - 3): introduces youngsters to the Native American way of life and to the Museum as an educational resource; Exploring Native American Pottery II (4 - 8): a hands-on analysis of traditional Native American pottery technique and methodology, including working with clay and related artifacts (seasonal -- call); Field Archaeology (4 - College): adapted for grade level, a slide-illustrated lesson using Museum exhibits to show how and why archaeologists do what they do. Other great programs are available.

Staff educators will also consult with teachers to help tailor programs to the needs of individual classes. Customized programs are best scheduled for January and February.